Estimated Reading Time: 25 Minutes

.

The Clone

Nate woke up with a heavy weight pressing down on him, an invisible burden that made it hard to even move. He slowly sat up in bed, the sheets crumpled around him, and stared blankly into the dimly lit room. His eyes were unfocused, staring at nothing in particular as a hollow numbness filled him. There were no racing thoughts or worries tugging at his mind; just an unsettling emptiness, as if his head were a vast, silent void. Time seemed to blur, and he couldn't tell how long he had been sitting there, unmoving, lost in the void.

Eventually, Nate summoned enough strength to drag himself out of bed and shuffle to the bathroom. The warm water running over his body as he stood under the shower felt like the first bit of relief he had felt in a while. For a moment, he let his eyes close, allowing the sensation to wash over him. But it was short lived. Once he stepped out, the cool air hit him, and the heaviness returned. He dried himself off, barely paying attention, until his eyes caught the mirror.

As he rubbed the towel over his damp hair, his gaze lingered on his reflection. A surge of anger flickered through him. Without thinking, he made a distorted, angry face, gritting his teeth. "I hate this hair. I hate this body. I hate—me," he cursed silently, the words echoing bitterly in his mind. The sight of himself filled him with frustration, his reflection staring back as a constant reminder that he's nothing but a copy.

Nate pulled the towel over his face, hiding from the world as he slumped down the bathroom wall. He sank to the floor, feeling the cool tiles beneath him, and sat there, shoulders trembling as silent tears slipped down his cheeks. He didn't bother to wipe them away. Everything just felt so overwhelming... So hopeless.

He had applied to countless jobs, sent out resume after resume, but there was no response. The silence from employers gnawed at him, and Kimberly's harsh words echoed in his mind. Maybe she was right. Maybe he'd never find work here in Onett. The thought weighed on him like a heavy anchor pulling him down. He could already see it—years of nothing ahead of him, stuck in the same place, with nothing to show for it. A deadbeat. For the rest of his life.

Knock!

Knock!

Nate: "!"

He gasped and shot upright, heart pounding in his chest. His mind felt foggy, but he moved instinctively, grabbing a face towel from the sink. Carefully, he placed it on the back of his neck, letting it rest there to catch the stray water droplets before they could soak into his shirt.

Tracy: "Nate, you there?"

Nate: "Yeah, sorry! I'm coming."

He opened the bathroom door and saw Ness's little sister. He forced a smile and stepped aside, so she could pass.

Nate: "All yours."

Tracy: "Well actually I wanted to chat with you."

Nate: "Oh yeah?"

Tracy: "I wanted to talk to you about my new boyfriend~"

Nate: "Oh—right."

Tracy: "Let's head to my room."

Nate: "Don't you have school?"

Tracy: "No, it's Saturday."

Nate: "Right, I used to work Saturdays, so I never saw you until later."

Tracy's expression softened into a frown as she looked up at him. "I'm sorry about your job," she said quietly.

Nate: "It's ok. I'll find another one."

Tracy: "Well, talking about it will only make it feel worse. Let's talk about my boyfriend instead~"

Nate: "Yeah ok."

The two made their way to Tracy's room, the atmosphere lightening just a bit as they settled in. She plopped down on her bed with her usual burst of energy, eyes sparkling with excitement. Grabbing her pillow, she began to bounce on the mattress, her youthful enthusiasm contagious.

Nate sat in her desk chair, watching her with a small, tired smile. Though his mind was weighed down with worry, Tracy's carefree attitude offered a brief escape from the heaviness of his thoughts.

Tracy: "Ok, so I finally talked to him and we hit it off! He called me cute and I felt like I was gonna die right then and there."

Nate: "Oh yeah?"

Tracy: "Yeah! He said he's super into blondes and guess what? I'm a blonde!"

Nate: "Yep."

Tracy: "He's so built! I love his body. He got this cute handsome face and nice hair. Also, he knows how to play guitar which is so romantic."

Nate: "That's pretty cool."

Tracy: "He's gonna take me out on a date soon. I'm so nervous but also excited."

Nate: "Where're you all goin'?"

Tracy: "To a restaurant. He's gonna pay for me~"

Nate: "That's nice of him."

Tracy: "Isn't he the sweetest? I love him already."

Nate: "How long have you two been dating?"

Tracy: "For like a week now."

Nate: "Wow. I must've really spaced out."

Tracy: "I know, you've kinda disappeared since you lost your job."

Nate: "Yeah…"

Tracy: "Oh sorry, I didn't mean to bring it up."

Nate: "You're ok."

Tracy: "But hey! How's your love life goin'? Still meeting up with that giiiirl?"

Nate: "Ah—it's—complicated."

Tracy: "Oh no, did you two break up?"

Nate: "We were never dating."

Tracy: "But you two did fool around. Say, since you're experienced and all, how was it like? I wanna hear the deets."

Nate: "I'm not telling you! I'm your brother. That's weird."

Tracy: "Oh come on. I just wanna know what to expect so when I do it, I won't look stupid."

Nate: "I'm uncomfortable."

Tracy: "It's not that big of a deal. You're acting like how Ness would."

Nate: "I think any sibling would act how I'm acting right now."

Tracy: "Psssh! No."

Nate: "Just ask reddit."

Tracy: "Eww, I don't like reddit."

Nate: "Just ask online for advice."

Tracy: "Fiiine. I'm just glad you're not mad at me for thinkin' about that stuff."

Nate: "It's natural. Why would I be mad?"

Tracy: "Mom and Ness would."

Nate: "I'm sure you think of them as annoying, but they just wanna protect you."

Tracy: "I can take care of myself."

Nate: "I know. That's why I don't care if you have a boyfriend."

Tracy: "Thank you, I appreciate that. My mom still doesn't know."

Nate: "Are you planning on telling her?"

Tracy: "God no. She's gonna make me break up with him immediately."

Nate: "I dunno, I think maybe you should tell her."

Tracy: "Eww, no. Also if she ever sees my boyfriend, she's definitely gonna try to make me break up with him."

Nate: "Because he's a jock?"

Tracy: "Yeah, she hates jocks. She thinks they're all fuckboys."

Nate: "Well, is he?"

Tracy: "No."

Nate: "How do you know? It seems to me like you barely know the guy."

Tracy: "Well duh. We've only been dating for a week. I'm getting to know him."

Nate: "Did you guys date right away?"

Tracy: "What'd you mean?"

Nate: "Did you two start off as friends first?"

Tracy: "Not really. We talked for a little, but then we just jumped to it."

Nate: "I dunno if that's good."

Tracy: "Trust me, he's a good guy."

Nate: "Mkay, I trust you."

Tracy: "Really?"

Nate: "Yup." (She gotta learn somehow.)

Tracy: "Eeee! He's so handsome!"

Nate: "Do you have a picture of him?"

Tracy: "No, but I should definitely take a selfie with him."

Nate: "Do that. I'm curious as to what he looks like."

Tracy: "I'll definitely show you!"

Nate: "Nice! Anyway, I think I'mma get back to job huntin'."

Tracy: "Aww, ok."

Nate: "Tell me more about him later ok."

Tracy: "Ok! I'm gonna text him right now anyway."

Nate nodded at Tracy and left her room, the door clicking shut behind him. He trudged back to his desk, the weight of frustration heavy on his shoulders. Plopping down in his chair, he opened his laptop and stared at the screen, feeling the familiar sense of dread wash over him.

He applied for a couple more jobs, his fingers tapping away at the keys with a sense of urgency. Determined to take action, he even picked up the phone and called several places, only to be met with the same stupid ass response: "Please apply online."

God, this is so frustrating, he thought, clenching his fists. Why is it so fucking hard to find a fucking job? The words echoed in his mind, amplifying his irritation as he leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling in annoyance.

Ding!

[- Trey

Trey: aye bro where u at havent seen u at work for a week

Nate: i didnt tell you?

Trey: tell me waht

Nate: i got fired

Trey: r u fkin srious

Nate: ded serious

Trey: y wtf happened

Nate: soooo i may have probably maybe the tiniest bit slept with kimberly

Trey: noooo

Nate: yeaaaah im srry i know u said to not do it but i coudnt help myself

Trey: brooo ur fkin crazy!

Nate: i have a problem

Trey: no shit! who tf sleeps with that psycho

Nate: ben would

Trey: ben is special

Nate: damn poor ben

Trey: also bro is all talk i dont think hed actually

Nate: idk man were all men here

Trey: ur real for dat

Nate: i mean wouldnt u?

Trey: HELL NAH

Nate: im sure the thought went through ur head

Trey: nah dude i fkin hate her like i actually hate that bitch

Nate: fair

Trey: i told u to stay away from her. it makes sense as to why u backed her up so much

Nate: i knoww im srry

Trey: whatever happened to bros bbefore hoes

Nate: IM SRRY!

Trey: man wtf now wat u gonna do

Nate: ive been applying to new jobs

Trey: any luck?

Nate: no…

Trey: it do be like dat

Nate: im really fustrated

Trey: wanna play some b ball after im off work? sounds like u need a friend to hang out wit

Nate: that would be nice

Trey: aight ill hit up latrr

Nate: k

…

Nate felt a flicker of relief knowing he had someone to talk to later. With a newfound sense of purpose, he walked downstairs, the familiar scent of the kitchen welcoming him. He began to gather ingredients, chopping vegetables and measuring out spices. Cooking was a distraction, a way to channel his restless energy into something productive.

As he stirred the ingredients in the pan, the rhythmic sound of sizzling filled the air, creating a comforting backdrop to his thoughts. It felt good to do something for everyone, especially since he wasn't working.

Once he finished cooking the stir-fry, Nate carefully plated the vibrant mix of vegetables and tender meat. He set the dishes on the table, arranging them neatly, and took a moment to admire his work. With a hint of anticipation, he took a bite, and while it wasn't anything to write home about, it was decent—average, really.

He walked upstairs and knocked on Tracy's door, the sound echoing in the quiet hallway. A moment passed, but there was no answer. He knocked again, this time a bit louder, and called out her name, "Hey, Trace, you there? I cooked dinner if you wanna come down."

His voice echoed back to him, but the silence that followed was heavy and unnerving. He frowned, feeling a twinge of concern. It wasn't like her to ignore him, especially when food was involved. He leaned against the door, listening intently, hoping to catch a hint of movement from within, but the stillness lingered, amplifying his unease.

He turned the knob and gently creaked the door open, peering inside Tracy's room. A wave of disappointment washed over him as he realized she wasn't there. His gaze swept across the space until it landed on the wide-open window, letting in a gentle breeze that rustled the curtains.

Ah, she must have snuck out to hang out with her boyfriend. A mix of relief and annoyance settling in. He was worried at first, but made the conclusion that she's fine.

With a sigh, he closed the door quietly, making his way back downstairs. He returned to the dinner table, and continued eating his dinner.

It was a strange coincidence, but just as Nate finished his meal, the front door swung open, and Rachel stepped inside, her presence instantly brightening the space. She paused for a moment, taking a deep breath as she sniffed the air, her eyes lighting up with delight. "Ooh, did my boy cook us some dinner?" she exclaimed, a playful grin spreading across her face.

Nate couldn't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm, the warmth of her excitement lifting his spirits a bit. "Just some stir-fry," he replied, trying to sound modest, though he felt a swell of pride at having prepared a meal. He found himself smiling at the small comfort of having someone appreciate his efforts.

She walked over and settled into a chair at the dinner table, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. As she took a bite of the stir-fry, her face lit up, and she beamed at him. "It's delicious!" she exclaimed, her cheerful tone ringing in the air like music.

Nate felt a warmth spread through him at her praise, but he couldn't help but feel a bit self-conscious. He scratched the back of his head, glancing away with a shy smile. "It's honestly not that good," he said, trying to downplay her compliment. "I could've done better." The words slipped out, but deep down, he appreciated her enthusiasm. It was nice to have someone genuinely enjoy his cooking, even if he was his own worst critic.

Rachel: "Nonsense. This is good. You'll only get better from here."

Nate: "Thanks."

Rachel: "Anyway, how was your day?"

Nate: "Well, not the best because ya know—I don't have a job."

Rachel: "Don't worry, you'll get one."

Nate: "I doubt it."

Rachel: "It takes time. It's only been a week."

Nate: "Right now it really feels hopeless."

Rachel: "This has happened to me before. I was out of work for a bit before you lived here."

Nate: "Really?"

Rachel: "Yes. I thought I would never find a job, but I kept trying and eventually I was finally able to land one."

Nate: "That makes me feel a little better."

Rachel stood up with a warm smile and gently patted Nate on the head, her touch comforting. "You're doing great already," she said in a soft, encouraging tone. "Thank you for cooking dinner."

Nate looked up at her, feeling a mixture of gratitude and humility. Her simple gesture made him feel appreciated, and though he wasn't one to bask in compliments, it was nice to hear those words.

Nate: "Thank you."

Rachel: "Of course. Oh, uh, is Tracy in bed?"

"Oh uh…" Nate bit his lip and averted his eyes. Should he tell Rachel that Tracy totally dipped? He probably should, but he also didn't want to be a tattle tale. Tracy would think he's the enemy too. What should he do?

Ding!

[- Trey

DM

Trey: bro u comin or waht

Nate: srry i was eating dinner im omw now

…

Nate: "Oh! Look at the time. I gotta go."

Rachel: "Where are you going?"

Nate: "I'm hangin' out with Trey at the basketball court."

Rachel: "Oh, ok! Don't stay out too late. You know Onett is dangerous."

Nate: "I got psychic powers. I'm fine."

Rachel: "Right. I just don't see you use it so I always forget."

Nate: "Yeaaah, I know. I should use it more."

Rachel: "I would if I had psychic powers. I don't know why you're not taking advantage of it."

Nate: "I dunno. I guess it's because I wanna be as normal as possible. Never knew what normal was ya know."

Rachel: "I guess?"

Nate: "Anyway, see ya later, mom."

Rachel's smile grew even warmer when he called her "Mom." She walked up to him, her affection clear, and placed a gentle kiss on his head. "Have fun," she whispered in a sweet, soft tone.

For a moment, Nate was taken aback by the tenderness of the gesture, feeling a wave of emotion he hadn't expected. But soon, a smile spread across his face, replacing the worried look that had been lingering there moments before. With a nod, he acknowledged her words and stepped out of the house, feeling lighter as he left.

When Nate met up with Trey, the two quickly fell into a casual game of basketball. It wasn't a full-on match, more like a laid-back contest to see who could sink the most shots in a set amount of time. They laughed and joked as they took turns throwing the ball into the hoop, each trying to one-up the other.

Trey, as expected, won by a landslide. Nate had never been great at basketball, and it showed. He missed more shots than he made, but he didn't mind—Trey's competitive streak kept the game fun, even if Nate wasn't exactly racking up points.

Nate: "Damn, *pants* you're too good."

Trey: "I've been playin' ball since I was a kid."

Nate: "I feel less bad that I suck now."

Trey: "Hahaha! You funny as hell."

Nate: "So, how's work been without me?"

Trey: "Shiiit. It's already been a week since you was gone. I seriously thought this entire time you was on vacation. I didn't wanna bother ya, so I didn't ask."

Nate: "I felt ashamed to tell you."

Trey: "Nah don't be. Shit happens all the time. I've been fired before."

Nate: "You have?"

Trey: "Mhm. My last job I got fired because I was too lazy or sumthin'."

Nate: "You're like one of the hardest workers I know."

Trey: "Nah, fam. I'm too laid back. I can admit that."

Nate: "I've seen you work hard."

Trey: "I mean shit, I don't wanna get fired again."

Nate: "That'll do it."

Trey: "Shiit, it's been gettin' bad since you've been gone."

Nate: "Really?"

Trey: "That bitch Kimberly has been bitchier. I didn't think that was possible."

Nate: "It's all my fault. I'm sorry…"

Trey: "I mean you shouldn't have fucked her, but she shouldn't be gettin' all pissy towards us because her boy toy dumped her ass. You did dump her, right? I'm not makin' that shit up?"

Nate: "We never dated."

Trey: "Just fuck buddies?"

Nate: "Yeah."

Trey: *Snacks lip* "Man, why'd you have to do it with her of all people? She fuckin' gross. I'm disappointed."

Nate: "I have a problem."

Trey: "Ya gotta to wanna fuck that."

Nate: "I mean she's hot. C'mon, even you have to admit."

Trey: "Nah I ain't into fuckin' crazy."

Nate: "Don't judge me."

Trey: "I'm judgin' because she was a real bitch to us kitchen folk. I mean she was a bitch to you sometimes and you two was fuckin'."

Nate: "Yeaaah—I should've seen the red flag a mile away."

Trey: "And you backed her up!"

Nate: "Sorry."

Trey: "Bro, not cool. I'm yo homie."

Nate: "I know, I'm sorry. I won't do that again."

Trey: "You better not or else I'mma have to beat yo ass."

Nate: *Snickers*

Trey: "What?"

Nate: "I'm stronger than you."

Trey: "Ya know before I knew about yo powers and shit, I would've argued, but after ya put me in my place with that arm wrestle match, I ain't gon say nuthin'."

Nate: "Ha! That's what I thought~"

Trey: "Ayo drop that cocky attitude or else I'mma-

Nate: "Beat me up~?"

Trey: "Fuck you."

Nate: "I mean…"

Trey: "Oh hell nah! Get that gay shit away from me, hahaha!"

Nate: "Homophobic?"

Trey: "Nah, but I sure as hell don't want you."

Nate: "What! I thought you loved me."

Trey: "I used to until you cheated on me with our boss."

Nate: "It was one time!"

Trey raised a brow and gave him a look of doubt.

Nate: "Ok, maybe it was three times…"

Trey: "THREE TIMES?!"

Nate: "M-maybe."

Trey: "BRO! WHAT THE FUCK!"

Nate: "W-ha-hat! I told you I have a problem."

Trey: "What the fuck kinda problem do you got?!"

Nate: "What is it called again? Nympho—uh…"

Trey: "Nymphomaniac?!"

Nate: "Yeah that."

Trey: "Are you serious?"

Nate: "Yeaaaah."

Trey: "Wait, actually?"

Nate: "Yeah."

Trey: "Oh shit—I-I didn't know. I'm sorry."

Nate: "It's why I can't be in a relationship and I have a hard time making friends."

Trey: "Oh—damn, I'm sorry."

Nate: "It's ok. I'm still learning more about myself everyday."

Trey: "I mean you and I will be tight til' the end."

Nate: "What if I do somethin' bad?"

Trey: "Nah, I don't see you doin' anything bad to me."

Nate: "I mean I prioritized Kimberly over you."

Trey: "You right. Fuck you."

Nate: "Hey!"

Trey: "Nah, I'm kiddin'. I get it. I've had my fair share of simpin'."

Nate: "Thanks for bein' understanding. You're like the coolest guy I know."

Trey: "My homie statin' facts."

Nate, still laughing, playfully punched Trey on the shoulder. "Get over yourself," he teased, a grin spreading across his face.

Trey chuckled in response, shrugging with exaggerated confidence. "Hey, it's not my fault I'm just that good," he shot back, smirking. Despite the playful banter, the lightheartedness of the moment made it clear that winning wasn't what mattered—it was the fun of hanging out together.

After their hangout, Trey drove Nate back home. They exchanged goodbyes. As he stepped inside the house, the place was shrouded in darkness, all the lights off. A brief thought flickered in his mind—had Tracy ever come back?

Nate wasn't too worried, though. To him, Onett wasn't nearly as dangerous as Rachel made it out to be. He'd spent plenty of nights outside, and the town always seemed peaceful. He regularly saw people out and about late at night, and nothing ever seemed to happen. It was calm here, unlike the chaotic energy of the Smash mansion. He was confident Tracy was safe, even if she hadn't come home yet. With a shrug, he pushed the concern aside and went to his room.

Feeling not depressed for once, he happily turned on his laptop and logged onto League. He texted Ness in discord to see if he wanted to play, but time went by and he never got a reply.

Nate: "Hmm, how about a call? That might get his attention."

[- Ness

Discord

Calling Ness…

.

.

.

.

.

You're alone in this chat.

…

Nate: "He's not answering…"

[- Ness

Discord

Nate: hey dude u still awake?

…

Ness always stays up until like three in the morning. There's no way that loser is asleep. Maybe he's just busy with something. It's fine, he'll play alone. He does win more when he's not playing with Ness. Haha! He sucks~